I could not decide on the title for this post. The “Courtyard of Happy Feet” was the second runner up. I also considered “There’s Something About Nadia, or even simply “Rouge Patine,” but, there IS just something about Nadia and it requires a magical title.

It was one of those days where things just happened magically. I magically caught the bus on time en route to my podiatrist appointment. I had never been to this doctor before but she was available on short notice and at a time that worked in my schedule. Magically.

I found my podiatrist (Dr Harmand-David, she is amazing) in a darling, magical courtyard near place des Ternes. A hidden spot that oozed charm. We chatted while she patched up my feet, and she mentioned the woman who had the space just behind hers : Nadia, who is a leather patina specialist. This certainly peaked my interest.

Dr Harmand introduced me to Nadia, and it was an instant connection. Magical!

We love shoes.

Nadia paints them, I sell them, but we both love shoes. And beautifully made products. And lovely patinas. And charming workshops. And making people happy with our work.

I was warmly invited to discover her beautiful workshop that seemed like a little jewel box in the middle of a delightful cobblestone courtyard.

She showed me her work personalizing Stan Smith sneakers, reviving shoe catastrophes, and giving a beautiful new patina to some slick city shoes.

Her clients come from all over the world for her expert talents. Some have their shoe purchases shipped directly to her for an upgrade.

If you want some fairy dust sprinkled on your shoes, it’s at 12 rue Bayen 75017 Paris. Rouge Patine. You’ll love your shoes and you’ll love Nadia.